British Government Reported Agreeing to Sell Defensive Arms to Israel

August 26, 1958

LONDON (Aug. 25)

Britain has definitely agreed to supply Israel with defensive arms, it was reported here today by well informed sources. The report arose in connection with the arrival here of Shimon Peres, director general of Israel’s Defense Ministry, who is said to have come to discuss the types and quantities of arms to be acquired.

These well informed circles believe that Israel is attempting to obtain anti-submarine weapons, anti-tank rockets, heavy artillery and armored equipment. It is understood that the basic agreement for the provision of arms was reached between Foreign Secretary Selwyn Lloyd and Israel Foreign Minister Golda Meir during her recent visit to London.

Mr. Peres, accompanied by Ambassador Ellahu Elath, called today at the Defense Ministry. He is scheduled to make a call at the Admiralty tomorrow.